Contemporary family garden
This garden was designed for a family seeking a modern outdoor space that could accommodate both relaxation and active use. The brief called for a swimming pool, space for table tennis and entertaining, and areas of shade and shelter to make the garden comfortable throughout the summer months.
The design balances clean architectural lines with generous planting, creating a structured yet relaxed environment that works equally well for family life and social gatherings.
SITE CHALLENGES & EARTHWORKS
The site presented significant technical challenges due to ground conditions and levels. More than 800 tonnes of clay were excavated to accommodate the pool, terraces and retaining structures.
Careful planning of levels and construction sequencing was essential to ensure stability, drainage and clean visual lines throughout the garden, while minimising the impact of large-scale groundworks on the finished appearance..
DESIGN & MATERIAL PALETTE
The layout is deliberately restrained, using strong geometry and a limited range of materials to give clarity and cohesion. Large-format porcelain paving provides a clean, contemporary surface around the pool and terraces, while brick retaining walls introduce warmth and tie the garden visually to the architecture of the house.
The pergola creates a defined outdoor room adjacent to the pool, offering shade and shelter and extending the use of the space into cooler or wetter weather.
PLANTING STRATEGY
Planting was selected to soften the hard landscape while maintaining a modern character. Structural trees and hedging provide enclosure and privacy, while ornamental grasses, perennials and shrubs introduce movement, texture and seasonal change.
Key species include Betula, Amelanchier, Hydrangea, Taxus, Buxus and a range of ornamental herbs and perennials, chosen to balance structure with a lighter, more natural feel around the pool and terraces.
OUTCOME
The completed garden transforms a previously open and underused lawn into a highly functional, year-round outdoor living space. Despite the scale of the engineering involved, the finished garden feels calm, balanced and welcoming — a contemporary setting that supports both family life and entertaining.
If you’re planning a contemporary garden that combines strong design with practical family use, we’d be happy to discuss your project.